Tulsa World: My gut feeling is you may need more stomach acid

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My gut feeling is you may need more stomach acid

By SUZY COHEN
Published: 11/14/2009 2:24 AM
Last Modified: 11/14/2009 5:26 AM

Dear Pharmacist: In a column on apple cider vinegar (ACV), you stated that "heartburn and reflux can sometimes be related to insufficient levels of stomach acid, not high levels like many of you who take acid blockers assume." I've been on Omeprazole for years for heartburn. My doctor says you're nuts and got angry when I questioned him. — T.B., Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

Doctors who thoroughly understand gastrointestinal function know this basic principle of physiology. A simple blood test evaluates stomach acid levels. Most physicians don't test your "gastrin" level, they just hand you a prescription. This bothers me.

Judging from the millions of pills dispensed from American pharmacies daily, the business of convincing you that "stomach acid is bad" is working. Don't misunderstand, acid blocking drugs are effective and necessary for some, but they are way overprescribed. We should spend more money educating the public on how to eat healthier, rather than drugging people up and advertising double-bacon triple-bypass cheeseburgers.

Anyway, the signs of low acid (termed hypochlorhydria) may be heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome, burping, cramps, food sensitivities and a higher risk for autoimmune disorders, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis and cancer. Hypochlorhydria is a huge problem in this country and it's getting more widespread, especially since the advent of acid blocking meds. Insufficient acid (drug-induced or not) can also cause:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, osteoporosis, elevated homocysteine, rosacea and acne, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema and psoriasis, yeast infections, adrenal exhaustion and vitiligo.

Why does acid help? One is that it keeps the tiny trap door shut between your stomach and esophagus. This sphincter is pH sensitive and normally stays shut because of the natural stomach acid. With acid deficiency, the stomach pH increases and this may cause the trap door to open, causing that familiar burn.

info@dearpharmacist.com By SUZY COHEN

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vlwood, Wichita (11/14/2009 9:59:32 AM)

Sometimes doctors who get angry when questioned are trying to cover up their own ignorance and incompetence.

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Maybenz, Tulsa (11/19/2009 10:57:31 AM)

Have you considered changing doctors? I think it seems warranted at this time because if you have a question regarding your health who else should you ask. I think your doctor should really appreciate the fact that you are exploring possibilities.

His comment regarding you being nuts was certainly inappropriate and unprofessional. His anger only confirms his inferiority and poor people skills. I wonder about his bedside manners. Explore other avenues.

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